Alternative Names

How the Test is Performed

A blood sample is needed. Most of the time blood is typically drawn from a vein
located on the inside of the elbow or the back of the hand.

How to Prepare for the Test

Many medicines can interfere with blood test results.

Your health care provider will tell you if you need to stop taking any medicines before you have this test.

Do not stop or change your medications without talking to your doctor first.

How the Test will Feel

You may feel slight pain or a sting when the needle is inserted. You may also feel some throbbing at the site after the blood is drawn.

Why the Test is Performed

The CO2 test is most often done as part of an electrolyte
or basic metabolic panel. Changes in your CO2 level may suggest that you are losing or retaining fluid. This may cause an imbalance in your body's electrolytes.

CO2 levels in the blood are affected by kidney and lung function. The kidneys help maintain the normal bicarbonate levels.

Normal Results

The normal range is 23-29 mEq/L (milliequivalents per liter).

Normal value ranges may vary slightly among different laboratories. Talk to your doctor about the meaning of your specific test results.

The example above shows the common measurement range of results for these tests. Some laboratories use different measurements or may test different specimens.

For help in finding a doctor or health service that suits your needs, call the UPMC Referral Service at 412-647-UPMC (8762) or 1-800-533-UPMC (8762). Select option 1.

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